Synthroid

What is the most important information I should know about Synthroid?
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Do not stop taking this medication without talking to your doctor. You will probably need to take this medication for the rest of your life to replace the thyroid hormone that your body is not producing. Even if you feel well, you need to take this medicine every day.
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Do not change brands of levothyroxine or change to a generic drug without first talking to your doctor.
What is Synthroid?
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Levothyroxine is a naturally occurring hormone produced by your thyroid. It is important for normal energy and metabolism.
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For a variety of reasons, your body may not produce enough of this hormone on its own. In these cases, Synthroid is taken to replace your body's natural thyroid hormone. Synthroid is also used to prevent and treat goiter (growth or enlargement of the thyroid gland). Causes of goiter include hormonal imbalances, radiation, surgery, and cancer.
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Synthroid may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.
Who should not take Synthroid?
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Since thyroid hormone occurs naturally in your body, almost anyone can take this drug. In general, Synthroid should not be taken if you have other hormonal problems that are not being adequately treated.
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Before taking this medication, tell your doctor if you have a heart disease such as coronary artery disease, hypertension, or angina. These conditions may be affected by thyroid therapy, and closer monitoring may be necessary at the start of therapy.
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Changes in blood sugar may occur if you have diabetes, and special monitoring may be necessary.
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Synthroid is in the FDA pregnancy category A. This means that Synthroid is safe for use during pregnancy. It is also safe to take thyroid hormones if you are breast-feeding a baby. This drug does pass into breast milk, but it will not harm a nursing infant.
How should I take Synthroid?
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Take this medication exactly as directed by your doctor. If you do not understand these directions, ask your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist to explain them to you.
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Take each dose with a full glass (8 ounces) of water.
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Take this medication at the same time each day whenever possible. Thyroid hormone is usually taken in the morning to prevent insomnia at night. Follow your doctor's instructions.
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Do not stop taking this medication for any reason without talking to your doctor first. It may take several weeks for you to start feeling better. Once you start feeling all right, do not stop taking Synthroid. You will probably need to take this medicine for the rest of your life.
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Do not change brands of levothyroxine or change to a generic drug without first talking to your doctor.
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Store Synthroid at room temperature away from moisture and heat.
What happens if I miss a dose?
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Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take only your next regularly scheduled dose. Do not take a double dose of this medication.
What happens if I overdose?
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Seek emergency medical treatment.
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Symptoms of a Synthroid overdose include chest pain, nervousness, trouble sleeping, tremor, rapid heartbeat, nausea, headache, fever, sweating, shortness of breath, heat intolerance, irregular menses, increased appetite, decreased weight, diarrhea, and abdominal pain.
What should I avoid while taking Synthroid?
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Do not stop taking this medication suddenly.
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Do not change brands of levothyroxine or change to a generic drug without first talking to your doctor.
What are the possible side effects of Synthroid?
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If you experience any of the following serious side effects, stop taking Synthroid and seek emergency medical attention:
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an allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; closing of your throat; swelling of your lips, tongue, or face; or hives);
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vomiting; or
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chest pain, irregular heartbeat, shortness of breath.
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Other, less serious side effects may be more likely to occur. Continue to take Synthroid and talk to your doctor or try another similar medication if you experience
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tremor, nervousness, or irritability;
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headache;
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insomnia;
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diarrhea, changes in appetite, or weight loss;
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leg cramps;
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menstrual irregularities; or
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fever, sweating, or heat sensitivity.
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Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome.
What other drugs will affect Synthroid?
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Other drugs may bind to Synthroid and reduce the amount that is available in your body, making it less effective. Separate Synthroid doses from the following medicines:
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antacids that contain aluminum;
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the prescription ulcer medicine sucralfate (Carafate);
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the cholesterol-lowering drugs cholestyramine (Questran) and colestipol (Colestid); and
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ferrous sulfate (a type of iron supplement).
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Drugs other than those listed here may also interact with Synthroid or affect your condition. Talk to your doctor and pharmacist before taking any prescription or over-the-counter medicines.